Weather forecasters talk
about weather models. These computer models are built using statistics
that compare prior weather conditions with current weather to predict
future weather.
Emergency teams
rely on statistics to tell them when danger may occur.
Lots of times on the news reports, statistics about a disease are
reported. If the reporter simply reports the number of people who
either have the disease or who have died from it, it's an interesting
fact but it might not mean much to your life. But when statistics
become involved, you have a better idea of how that disease may affect
you.
Scientists must show a statistically valid rate of effectiveness
before any drug can be prescribed. Statistics are behind every medical
study you hear about.
Many people are afflicted with diseases that come from their genetic
make-up and these diseases can potentially be passed on to their children.
Statistics are critical in determining the chances of a new baby being
affected by the disease.
Another topic that you hear a lot about in the news is the stock
market. Stock analysts also use statistical computer models to forecast
what is happening in the economy.